Tap Water Report Being Distributed

August 16, 1999

SOUTHINGTON — Through October, the town's water department will distribute its 1998 annual report on tap water quality to its customers.

Only one contaminant approached the red-flag levels set by the Department of Environmental Protection. In a few wells, the copper level rose as high as 1.08 parts per million, close to the maximum contaminant level goal of 1.3 ppm. Copper levels in 30 tested sites ranged from 0.02 ppm to 1.08 ppm, with very few wells registering near the upper end, the report states. Since the maximum contaminant level goals set by the DEP allow a significant margin of safety, the copper levels are not alarming, the report states.

The corrosion of household plumbing systems, the erosion of natural deposits and leaching from wood preservatives are the most common sources of copper pollution. Eight other monitored contaminants registered only at levels well below the DEP's maximum contaminant goal levels.

The report will be sent to customers as an insert in their bills. Additional copies are available at the water department's High Street office, the town hall and the library. The report can be viewed on-line at http://www.waterdata.com.

Please direct questions regarding the report to the water department at (860) 628-5593.